Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls

Name: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 balls
Ingredients: 1 pound ground sausage; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, ideal for any gathering or as a tasty snack.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-09T17:49:33.087Z

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls combine the savory goodness of sausage with the spicy kick of jalapeños, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Easy to make and great for parties or game days
Cheesy and delicious, with a satisfying crunch

      

The Perfect Party Snack

When planning a gathering, having the right snacks can make all the difference. These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls not only pack a flavorful punch but also offer a wonderful combination of textures. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy center, making each bite satisfying. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a casual get-together or a game day celebration.

One of the best aspects of these sausage balls is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main dish. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, to enhance the flavors further. Guests will love the spicy kick from the jalapeños, balanced perfectly by the richness of the cheeses.

Easy to Make

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create these delicious bites without stress. The hands-on aspect of forming the balls allows for a fun cooking experience, perfect for involving friends and family in the kitchen.

Preparation is quick, making this recipe ideal for those unexpected gatherings. With just 20-25 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious snack ready in no time. This efficiency means you can focus less on cooking and more on enjoying time with your guests.

Customize to Your Taste

While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, feel free to customize these sausage balls to suit your preferences. Want to turn up the heat? Add more jalapeños or some diced habaneros for an extra kick. If you love different cheeses, try substituting pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

You can also experiment with various spices to create your unique version. Adding some smoked paprika can introduce a lovely smoky flavor, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor these sausage balls to your unique taste.

Ingredients

For the Sausage Balls

1 pound ground sausage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Mix well and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, flour, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spicy jalapeño popper sausage balls!

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Sausage Balls shine when served with a variety of dipping sauces. A creamy ranch or zesty chipotle sauce can complement the spicy flavors beautifully. Consider offering a selection of sauces to cater to different tastes, allowing your guests to choose their favorite.

For a complete meal, pair these sausage balls with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. The contrast of flavors and textures can create a well-rounded dining experience, making your gathering even more memorable.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, worry not! These sausage balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack that tastes just as good as when they were first baked.

For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked balls. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly cooked sausage balls.

Nutritional Information

While these sausage balls are indulgent, they can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Each ball is packed with protein from the sausage and cheese, making them a filling snack. The addition of jalapeños not only adds flavor but also brings health benefits like boosting metabolism.

For those watching their caloric intake, consider adjusting the portion sizes or serving them alongside healthier options, such as veggie sticks or a light salad. Enjoying these spicy bites as part of a varied diet can help satisfy cravings without derailing your health goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to a day before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the sausage balls?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these sausage balls?

They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or any dipping sauce you prefer.

→ Are these sausage balls gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.